In a disconcerting revelation, the latest OECD report on cancer has exposed Belgium’s persistent battle with rising cancer rates, despite the implementation of a major cancer plan by the Federal Government nearly 15 years ago.
With more than 70,000 cancer diagnoses annually, Belgium remains above the European average in terms of cancers diagnosed per capita.
The report indicates a troubling trend, with a 30% increase in the number of cancers in Belgium over the past 15 years, signaling a pressing need for renewed efforts in combating this escalating health crisis.
Astonishingly, one in three men and just over one in four women are projected to develop some form of cancer before reaching their 75th birthday.
Catherine Fonck, leader of the French-speaking centrist Les Engagés in the Federal Parliament, expressed deep concern over the lack of progress despite the implementation of the 2009 cancer plan.
“Our 2009 cancer plan is completely out of date in terms of scientific knowledge. We have obvious strengths in terms of care, but we also suffer from some worrying weaknesses,” Fonck emphasized.
One of the glaring weaknesses highlighted in the report is the lagging screening rate in Belgium. Detecting cancers at an early stage is crucial for improving survival rates and reducing treatment costs.
However, the report underscores that Belgium’s screening efforts are falling behind schedule. Cancers diagnosed at later stages not only result in more suffering for patients but also diminish the chances of survival.
Fonck raised concerns about the bureaucratic hurdles hindering progress in addressing this public health crisis.
“The fact that we have not made significant progress in terms of screening and access to care is also because of the constant ping-pong between the nine ministers responsible, who pass the hot potato on key issues,” she stated.
Belgium’s aging population adds urgency to the need for a comprehensive and up-to-date strategy. With the 2009 cancer plan now deemed obsolete, Fonck emphasized the immediate necessity of establishing a new, robust roadmap to address the current challenges effectively.
While Belgium boasts strengths in the quality of care, the inefficiencies in screening and the convoluted decision-making process among ministers responsible for healthcare pose formidable obstacles.
The call for a united front in tackling cancer, with a focus on prevention, early detection, and streamlined access to care, has become more imperative than ever.
As the population ages and cancer diagnoses continue to rise, Belgium stands at a critical juncture. The nation must prioritize a collaborative and innovative approach to update its strategies, ensuring that the fight against cancer aligns with the latest scientific knowledge and provides the best possible outcomes for its citizens.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members
